Levenmouth ‘needs to see more of the benefits’ of major renewables projects

The first phase of offshore construction has started on the Neart na Gaoithe (NnG) offshore wind farm, just 15km off the East Neuk coastline.

It will provide low carbon electricity for around 375,000 homes when it is completed in 2023.

But of the 54 wind turbines being constructed, just eight of the turbine jackets are being constructed at BiFab.

A hydrogen network, which could heat around 300 homes in Levenmouth, is also due to be built in the area.

While Councillor Colin Davidson has welcomed both the developments, he warned that Levenmouth needs to see more of the benefits.

“If we are serious about renewables, we need to be seeing more of the benefits,” he said.

“I welcome the developments – but we’re not getting the maximum benefits from this.

“There has to be apprenticeships and long-term jobs for local people. We’ve got the skills, the workforce and the land.”

Cllr Davidson highlighted that Fife Council often adds conditions to major housing proposals, making sure that developers put funds towards infrastructure and other local projects, and said the same should be done when there are plans for renewables projects in the area.

“We need to be asking about these investments and where the tie-ins are,” Cllr Davidson continued.

Speaking about work starting on the NnG offshore windfarm, Matthias Haag, project director, said: “The construction phase of the NnG offshore wind farm is now well under way and many people will be able to see the S7000 starting construction work offshore.

“It will be visible from much of the East Neuk of Fife and from North Berwick and Dunbar.

“We have carefully considered the implications of Covid-19 and Scottish government guidelines as the work gets under way offshore and for the continuing onshore works.”